tomm1e

That is also a good point, but I am pretty sure that peregrine falcons have viewed flocks of racing pigeons as easy targets since pigeon racing began.

Just picked 1950s as a possibility. Whatever caused the decline in hawk population - shooting, farming methods etc - pick a decade last century when pigeon racing was popular and the hawk population was high and see if there was a problem with yb losses. If hawks are the main cause then the problem should have been worse. Also, as mentioned above, some factors could be ruled out.

It would be interesting to see what the pigeon papers in say the 1950s were saying, if anything, about yb losses. That was a period when pigeon racing was more popular than now but also a time when the hawk population was high. If there was a fuss then about yb losses it couldn't be put down to ets or mobile signals but it still wouldn't mean that hawks are entirely to blame.

Think fitness should be added to that list. All those other factors might be in place, ie quality pigeons, healthy and motivated; but if they are not super fit they will not win races.

Between Crook and Bishop Auckland, Co Durham

can anyone tell me what time the liberation is scheduled for.

no,i don't know. They have alot of events at Witton Castle, so its possible the show field where the liberations take place was being used.

Thought these pics taken Saturday 10.5.08 at Witton Castle might be of interest.

IB hits the mark. No coherent marketing startegy by authorities to promote the sport. Should be a full-time post. A pigeon zar.

This is an interesting thread. To all who participated: can anyone tell me who supplies Moxidectin in Great Britain?

hi, can you provide more information: strains and age of birds. thanks